We all experience feelings of darkness at times, but DIY-artist Emma Bradley chose to create a character to embody her deepest emotions. She calls her character Winona, and now she has opened the door to the dark and dreamy alt-pop EP winona’s world.
I gave her all of my darkest scariest feelings and let her talk about them in a way that I myself maybe would not have been able to explore or be as honest about in my music.
Inspired by the likes of Imogen Heap and James Blake, Bradley uses richly textured vocals, emotive piano and hazy soundscapes to explore heartbreak, loss, queerness and struggles with mental health. After distancing herself from her previous label and management, Emma Bradley has self-produced and written then entire collection of songs from her living room.
“No compromises, no rules – I only had to answer to myself”
‘bad apple’, inspired by the movies of Tim Burton, aptly has a sound that is a blend of beautiful and sinister. Cascading piano ripples under Bradley’s vocoded lyrics; the result gives you goosebumps.
‘that door’ is a plea to stay, but ultimately a realisation of loss. Emma Bradley bravely samples the heart-breaking voice note she sent to a friend after being left by a partner; it’s hard not to be drawn to her bare vulnerability with warmth and compassion.
Previously reviewed single ‘serotonin skies‘ is stand-out track for me. Acoustic guitar strums below as Emma Bradley’s lush vocal sounds are ascending throughout. This song is a prime example of Emma’s eloquent navigation through love and pain.
winona’s world is a beautifully haunting record that sheds light on the darkness. Emma Bradley shows strength in her honesty and passion through her unique style of music-making. Listen to winona’s world on all major platforms.
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